questions about replacing oem cat converter with an aftermarket one.

[ghettosled]

im still wrestling with getting the old oxygen sensor out of the old catalytic converter so i havent had a chance to run the car yet. its a '96 camry i4 and i replaced the 3-way cat (primary) with an aftermarket one by catco because it was SO much cheaper than oem. i do have two concerns that maybe someone could shed some light on.

1. the bolt pattern and gasket lined up like a charm, but the intake diameter for the new cat is quite a bit smaller (about 25%) than the oem. will this cause a restriction and hurt my fuel economy?

2. there are 2 braces that support the oem converter, the aftermarket one doesnt use ANY braces. will this cause any problems to the exhaust manifold?

any input is greatly appreciated.

[terrastrife]

smaller cat, much less flow, maybe less power, or mroe, or the same if the old one is buggered. im pretty sure your exhasut has a hanger about mid way along the pipe in the middle of teh car...this, mufller hangers and bolted to the head should hold fine.

[ghettosled]

yeah, there is a hanger there (i replaced that section as well).as long as that is sufficient to hold everything in place, ill be a happy camper. good point about the old cat being "buggered" - the sensor said my cat was blocked! and i still averaged 29-30 mpg.